Robinson and Shannon

In *Robinson and Shannon*, heard by Kent J of the Family Court of Australia, the proceedings concerned an application by the Independent Children’s Lawyer and the Mother for leave to publish certain documents. The dispute revolved around the disclosure of the reasons for judgment and a report by Dr R to Legal Aid Queensland.

The primary legal issue before the Court was whether to grant leave for the publication of the judgment reasons and Dr R's report, pursuant to section 121(g) of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth). This section governs the publication of documents in family law proceedings and requires judicial authorisation for such disclosures.

Kent J granted the requested leave. The Court's reasoning, as evidenced by the orders made, was to facilitate the Mother's legal aid funding application. The orders specifically permitted the Independent Children’s Lawyer to publish the reasons for judgment to Legal Aid Queensland, and the Mother to publish both the report of Dr R and the reasons for judgment to Legal Aid Queensland for the purpose of her funding application. The Court also noted a request for Legal Aid Queensland to favourably consider extending funding to the Mother.